Flora and fauna around JCU

Today I took a hike around James Cook University and up to the Douglas mountain bike reserve. The goal of my hike was to notice the world around me so I could share it with you. I saw beautiful red paper petaled Hibiscus with long pronounced stamen. I saw one of Australia’s largest butterflies the Cairns birdwing (Ornithoptera euphorion). I saw a black snake slither across the mountain bike trail which signaled that it was high time for me to head back to campus. From the top of the hike I could see the peak of Douglas Mountain shrouded with radio towers, and in the distance to the north and east I could see Castle Hill, the city of Townsville and the Coral Sea.

Paper bark Tea Tree. Invasive species in USA.

Look up. really interesting bark and fronds. Not sure what type of tree this is.

Male Cairnes Birdwing.

The Cairns Birdwing (Ornithoptera euphorion) is a species of birdwing butterfly endemic to northeastern Australia, and is Australia’s largest endemic butterfly species.

Enjoy the gallery of pictures from today’s hike.

The view looking up a light post. I liked the contrasting colors and textures and the cloud.

Paper bark Tea Tree. Invasive species in USA.

Look up. really interesting bark and fronds. Not sure what type of tree this is.

The Cairns Birdwing (Ornithoptera euphorion) is a species of birdwing butterfly endemic to northeastern Australia, and is Australia’s largest endemic butterfly species.

Females have a wingspan reaching of up to 150 mm.

Macro vision on the aloe.

Beauty in small places.

The steep road that the Townsville road runners run up every Tuesday morning. The view is totally worth it.

Mount Douglas on a warm winter afternoon (25 degrees C)

The tea made from hibiscus flowers is known by many names in many countries around the world and is served both hot and cold. The beverage is well known for its color, tanginess and flavor.

Dried hibiscus is edible, and is often a delicacy in Mexico. It can also be candied and used as a garnish.